| dc.description.abstract | The EV market is growing, and consequently, large amounts of batteries will be retired.
However, the retired batteries have a significant capacity that may be utilized for a second
life. This master thesis examines how LFP batteries can be utilized at the end of life. The
following problem statement was used: How can LFP batteries become more sustainable at
the end of life, in terms of technology, economy, and environment? In addition, the research
question was used: What are the technological, economic, and environmental barriers and
possibilities for LFP batteries at the end of life?
A qualitative method was implemented to answer the problem statement and research question.
Interviews with several researchers and industry players were conducted to collect the
data. After the data was collected, it was analyzed and compared with the theory. Finally,
the conclusion was drawn.
The findings of this master thesis show that some of the LFP batteries are discarded after
the first life, which is harmful to the environment. However, the thesis concludes that LFP
batteries may be utilized for various second-life applications such as energy storage. This is
due to the advantages of the LFP battery, such as low cost and high safety. Nevertheless,
the thesis also shows that LFP batteries can be evaluated after their first life. However, the
whole battery pack may be retired if one cell is damaged. For this reason, the screening
technology may be the solution because the damaged cells can be identified and changed.
Finally, the thesis shows that there is less interest in recycling LFP batteries due to their
low economic value. However, the regulations may help to motivate recyclers to recycle LFP
batteries. | |